Canberra’s best restaurants off the radar

May 5 2017

There’s one thing about Canberra that’s for certain; there is definitely no shortages when it comes to great eats. However, the best restaurants in Canberra are often the hardest to find, making the effort all the more worth the venture.

We’ve taken the liberty of putting together our top three of Canberra’s best restaurants off the radar. Whether you’re here to stay or just to visit, we encourage you to get exploring!

Loading Zone

Tucked behind the bustling streets of Canberra city, Loading Zone is the ultimate hidden gem. Its homely feel makes it the perfect place to bring the family. The friendly staff, great service and fares, and down to earth atmosphere are a winning combination for this seasoned Italian restaurant.

The seasonal menu aims to provide flavours reminiscent of home style cooking, serving popular dishes including freshly cooked lasagne straight from the baking tray.

Other items on the menu also include pork and fennel ragout in nonna’s sugo on pappardelle; Italian minestrone with homemade sourdough; and homemade pork and fennel sausage rolls.

Where:

Odgers Ln, Canberra ACT 2601

Opening Hours:

Monday – Friday 6:30am to 4:00pm

Brodburger

Tried and tested, Brodburger has been named the as one of the best burger joints in Canberra for a reason. They began their journey in a little red gypsy caravan in a lakeside park where queues were known to start 30 minutes before opening time, and stretch for hours onwards.

As the business grew, they decided to open a commercial space amongst the surrounds of the Kingston Foreshore. Surely enough, the venue has now grown to be one of Canberra’s most popular hidden gems.

The burgers are well worth the wait; a few of our personal favourites include the Brodburger, Broddeluxe, Brod Veg, and Double Cheeseburger.

The Mandalay Bus
The Mandalay Bus has been a Canberra icon for the past 20 years. The owner George Thuang (who is now 90 years old) serves the best Burmese dishes to Canberra’s night owls. The van was given a new lease on life late last year, following its abandonment due to external factors.

George’s sons have been a large driving force in the reinvigoration of the bus; joining forces with Andrew Hollands, the head of 2617 group that runs some of Canberra’s best known establishments such The Abbey.

The Mandalay Bus operates every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from 9pm.

Some of their must-try items include crepes with banana, nutella, peanut butter and marshmallows, beef croquettes, and prawn twisters.